Microchip Introduces PIC32CM PL10 MCU, Expanding Cortex-M0+ Solutions for High-Volume Embedded Applications

Building on decades of expertise in embedded applications, Microchip Technology has expanded its Arm® Cortex®-M0+–based PIC32C portfolio with the introduction of the PIC32CM PL10 microcontroller. Designed for high-volume markets such as industrial control, building automation, consumer appliances, power tools, and sensor-driven systems, the PL10 MCU combines a rich set of Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs), 5V operation, touch capability, integrated development tools, and compliance with key safety standards. As part of Microchip’s unified MCU strategy, the PL10 devices are fully pin-compatible with existing AVR® MCUs, simplifying migration paths for designers.

The PL10 integrates a Peripheral Touch Controller (PTC) and a 12-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC), delivering fast response for touch-based interfaces and strong noise immunity for accurate analog measurements. Additional on-chip CIPs offload time-critical, repetitive, and deterministic tasks from the CPU, improving real-time performance while enhancing overall power efficiency. Support for the Cortex Microcontroller Software Interface Standard (CMSIS) enables modular, reusable code, helping developers shorten design cycles and accelerate time to market.

In addition to full support from Microchip’s MPLAB® development ecosystem, the PL10 family is compatible with a wide range of industry-standard tools and integrated development environments. Developers can choose from third-party solutions such as Microsoft® Visual Studio Code®, IAR™ Systems, Arm® Keil®, SEGGER, Zephyr®, and MikroElektronika. AI-assisted resources, including the MPLAB AI Coding Assistant, provide context-aware code generation and real-time insights, further simplifying and speeding up development.

“The PL10 MCU allows engineers to transition easily to higher-performance microcontrollers while preserving the simplicity, energy efficiency, and cost advantages associated with our proven 8-bit solutions,” said Greg Robinson, Vice President of Microchip’s MCU business unit. “Over the next 12 to 18 months, we will continue to expand our MCU offerings—from entry-level devices to AI-enabled solutions—ensuring a comprehensive portfolio that addresses evolving market requirements.”

The PL10 microcontroller family is designed to meet multiple industry safety standards, including ISO 26262 for functional safety in road vehicle electrical and electronic systems. Operating across a wide voltage range from 1.8V to 5.5V, these devices support high-performance operation in noisy environments such as automotive, IoT, industrial automation, and consumer electronics. Integrated multi-voltage I/O (MVIO) capability enables direct interfacing with peripherals operating at different voltage levels, eliminating the need for external level-shifting components.